CIPFA’s Post

With only 11% of voters trusting politicians to tell the truth (Ipsos) - the lowest figure since polling began in 1973 - is the audit profession restoring public trust, or just reporting on its decline? 💡As Pippa Crerar, Political Editor at The Guardian, said: “Public faith in the whole political and economic system has collapsed.” In conversation with Pippa, Gareth Davies, Comptroller and Auditor General at the UK National Audit Office, discusses how audit can be part of the solution. Trust can be rebuilt when audit: 🌱 Shows impact - eg '£5.3 billion in public spending audited in 2024/25.' 🎯 Communicates clearly: accessible NAO reports & summaries that people actually read 🚨 Flags problems early, especially in high-cost areas like SEND and temporary accommodation 🔎 Holds systems accountable, particularly in local authorities where delays harm transparency From Partygate to policy U-turns, the public isn’t just sceptical- they’re disillusioned. Without urgent action, trust won’t just erode - it could fracture completely. 📌 So, what’s next? The creation of a new Local Audit Office (launching in 2027) is a key step forward. But restoring trust will take more than systems - it requires integrity, transparency and leadership at every level. 📸 - Peter Medlicott #PublicFinance #Audit #TrustInPublicFinance